Polish Geological Institute Research Articles

Recenzja: M. Chada, A. Stawicka (red.). (2022). „Atlas geologiczno-inżynierski Lublin–Świdnik”. Warszawa: Państwowy Instytut Geologiczny – Państwowy Instytut Badawczy

The review concerns the Geological and Engineering Atlas of Lublin–Świdnik, edited by Marta Chada and Anna Stawicka, published in 2022 by the Polish Geological Institute – National Research Institute. The review highlights the uniqueness of this work, its interdisciplinary nature and the wealth of information it contains. Both the strengths of the atlas, such as the detailed geological and engineering documentation of the region, and its weaknesses, including editorial shortcomings and the excessive density of data, which may hinder comprehension for less prepared readers, were identified. The significance of the atlas for specialists in the fields of geology and civil engineering was emphasized due to its ability to provide accurate and up-to-date data essential for planning and executing infrastructure projects. The review also draws attention to the educational value of the atlas, suggesting that it can serve as a textbook for scientists and students interested in engineering geology and contemporary trends in this field. Additionally, the review points out the importance of the atlas for professionals, decision-makers and governmental institutions due to its contribution to the recognition of geological and engineering conditions in the Lublin agglomeration and potential hazards, which is crucial for infrastructural safety and sustainable development.

Antibacterial and therapeutic potential of historic deposits of silesian healing clay – terra sigillataSilesiaca

Ethnopharmacological relevanceThe increasing evolution of pathogen resistance is a global problem that requires novel solutions. Recently, an increased interest in ethnomedicinal sources can be observed in the derivation of new medicines. The return to traditional medicinal formulations handed down for generations is being followed, but it is necessary to revise them again, taking into account the generally accepted research protocol. Aim of the studyWe aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial potential of historical deposits of Silesian healing clay (SHC), used in ethnomedicine against Gram-positive bacteria and to assess their biological activity using a primary dermal fibroblast line (NHDF) and a model monocyte line (THP1). Materials and methodsInformation on medicinal clay deposits that occur in Silesia and are traditionally used in ethnomedicine or ancient medicine and known as terra sigillata Silesiaca or SHC, was selected on available source materials and old prints and maps from the archives of the Polish Geological Institute (Wrocław, Poland). Subsequently, their places of occurrence were identified and traced in the field by taking three deposits from the Silesia territory: Upper Silesia (D1), Opole Silesia (D2), and Lower Silesian (D3) Voivodeships for analysis. Their basic parameters and antimicrobial efficacy against pathogenic bacteria, Gram-positive streptococci and staphylococci, including methicillin-resistant strains, were examined. The study evaluated the effects of clays on growth and vitality using a primary dermal fibroblast line (NHDF) and a monocytic line (THP1). Studies were performed on a cell culture model to determine the effects on tissue regeneration (fibroblasts) and anti-inflammatory effects (monocytes). The study attempted to identify the mechanism of antimicrobial action, especially the textural characteristics and geochemical composition, as well as the environmental reaction (pH). ResultsSHCs were classified into the following textural classes: clay loam (D1), clay (D2), and sand (D3). The tested deposits have antimicrobial properties that reduce the bacterial population (104 CFU) compared to the control (108 CFU). The antimicrobial effect depends on the type of clay and the species or strain of bacteria used. In-house studies clearly showed that Staphylococcus aureus Pcm 2054 and Staphylococcus epidermidis MRSE ATCC 2538 cells were completely adsorbed by clay minerals from clay D3.13. Furthermore, 10% leachates also showed an antimicrobial effect, as a reduction in bacterial populations was observed ranging from 91 to 100%. The results showed stimulation of fibroblast culture proliferation and inhibition of the growth of inflammatory cells (monocytes). ConclusionSHCs tested have antimicrobial potential, in particular D2.7, D2.11, and D3.13. The D3.13 deposit had a bactericidal effect against the staphylococci tested. Aqueous solutions of clays also showed bacteriostatic effect. The results obtained in cell culture model tests indicate properties that modulate the healing process – stimulation of fibroblast growth (NHDF line) and inhibition of monocyte growth (THP1 line).

Modernization of the basic gravimetric control network Polish Geological Institute – implementing a modern international gravimetric system and relationship with the historical Potsdam system

Abstract The project of the gravimetric database reambulation from the collections of the Central Geological Archives set itself the goal of ending the era of gravimetric bases dualism and transferring both databases: gravimetric base and archival gravimetric semi-detailed measurements to the modern frame of gravity reference, consistent with ITGRS/F definitions and realizations. This will strengthen the interpretational potential of gravimetric data and will open the possibility of fully integrating Polish gravity data with international databases of this type, and will also allow for the performance of modern works in relation to the modern gravimetric control network, i.e., in relation to the highest possible precision of the reference definition of gravimetric measurements in the country. Whenever the article refers to the units in which the gravity vector is determined, milliGal [mGal] is used, and the relation to the SI system is as follows: 1mGal = 10–5ms–2 or microGal [µGal] where 1µGal = 10–8ms–2.

Oxygen Isotopes from Apatite of Middle and Late Ordovician Conodonts in Peri-Baltica (The Holy Cross Mountains, Poland) and Their Climatic Implications

This report provides oxygen isotopes from apatite of late Middle and Late Ordovician conodonts from the southern Holy Cross Mountains in south-eastern Poland. It was a unique time interval characterised by a significant change in the Ordovician climate, tectonic, and ocean chemistry. In the Middle and early Late Ordovician, the Holy Cross Mountains were located in the mid-latitude climatic zone at the southwestern periphery of Baltica; therefore, the δ18Oapatite values from this region provide new data on the 18O/16O budget in the Ordovician seawater reconstructed mainly from the tropical and subtropical realms. Oxygen isotopes from mixed conodont samples were measured using the SHRIMP IIe/MC ion microprobe in the Polish Geological Institute in Warsaw. The δ18Oapatite values range from 16.75‰VSMOW to 20.66‰VSMOW with an average of 18.48‰VSMOW. The oxygen isotopes from bioapatite of the studied section display an increasing trend, suggesting a progressive decrease in sea-surface temperature roughly consistent with an overall cooling of the Ordovician climate. Two distinctive positive excursions of δ18Oapatite have been reported in the upper Sandbian and middle Katian of the studied section and correlated with cooling events recognised in Baltica. They are interpreted as an isotope temperature proxy of climate changes triggered by a growing continental polar ice cap, but increased δ18Oapatite in the late Sandbian contradicts recently postulated climate warming during that time in subtropical Laurentia.

Impact of road transport on groundwater quality

Road transport is one of the sources of groundwater pollution. The aim of the article is to find out whether the largest roads in Poland have a negative impact on groundwater quality and to assess the extent of their influence. The water chemistry in the area of roads with heavy traffic in north-west and central Poland in 2007–2020 was analyzed. The groundwater quality status and the dynamics of changes in concentrations of selected chemical constituents were assessed. Data was taken from the national chemical monitoring network managed by the Polish Geological Institute - National Research Institute. The results of monitoring tests at 42 selected points were subject to detailed statistical analysis. The mentioned points were located within 100 m from the roads. A statistical analysis of selected chemical parameters and a correlation matrix for selected components were performed. The distribution of electrolytic conductivity in the analyzed 42 points in 2019 is presented in the form of a contour map against the background of the main roads in the analyzed area. Based on archival data, a 7-year prediction of changes in concentrations of selected chemical components, using the autoregressive method, was made. The predicted distribution of concentrations of individual chemical components in groundwater indicates that the vicinity (up to 50 m) of roads may negatively affect the groundwater quality. The increased concentration of chloride and sodium ions was found in most sites. An upward trend was also observed for specific electrolytic conductivity.

Occurrence, Origin and Health Hazards of High Fluoride Waters in the Western Part of the Neogene Sedimentary Basin in Opole Province, Poland

High fluoride content exceeding permissible limits for drinking water and causing numerous incidents of fluorosis disease in the population of Nysa town was the reason for the closure of the deepest wells in the western part of the Neogene groundwater basin Paczków-Niemodlin in the Opole region in Poland. Hydrochemical studies conducted by the Polish Geological Institute – National Research Institute resulted in the recognition and extent of fluoride anomaly in the groundwater extracted from the Neogene basin in southern Poland. The studies provided a comprehensive recognition of hydrogeological and chemical conditions of the aquifer located in the Neogene basin characterized by a series of fine-grained sands within a series of clays. The content of fluoride in groundwater is high; the average is 2.1 mg/L, maximum value reached 11.5 mg/l, exceeding several times the permissible limit for drinking waters (1.5 mg/L). The main objective of this study was to determine the source of high concentrations of fluoride in groundwater in the western part of Paczków-Niemodlin basin where the highest concentrations were observed. The investigations confirmed the increase in fluoride content with the decreasing altitude of the aquifers. Various factors that may form the chemistry of these groundwater were analyzed. The most probable source of high fluoride content in groundwater in this basin is their long-term contact with Precambrian and Palaeozoic igneous and metamorphic rocks containing fluorine-rich minerals along with the location near large fault zones, which may be privileged water flowpaths from greater depths.

Analysis of the current state of natural gas resources in domestic deposits and a forecast of domestic gas production until 2030

Natural gas is the basic fossil fuel in the global economy. According to the information published by Polskie Górnictwo Naftowe i Gazownictwo SA in the document Company Presentation, gas consumption in 2018 amounted to 19.7 billion m3. Due to the fact that the domestic reserves of natural gas are increasingly depleted, the demand for natural gas will be satisfied by growing imports. Balancing gas demand will require precise knowledge of the volume of domestic natural gas production. On the other hand, every year the Polish Geological Institute – National Research Institute (PIG – BIP) publishes Balance of mine resources in Poland. According to the publication on the state of resources as of December 31, 2018, 298 natural gas fields have been documented in Poland, 5 in the Baltic Sea region, 35 in Carpathians, 105 in Carpathian Foreland and 153 in Polish Lowland. The balance presented by PIG – BIP for 2018 showed the state of natural gas contingent resources in the amount of 139.93 billion m3 (total balance resources). The volume of industrial reserves of natural gas deposits as at December 31, 2018 was 66.64 billion m3. It should be emphasized that all data published in the Balance of mine resources in Poland are given in normal cubic meters. Therefore, the data published by PIG – BIP do not take into account the actual calorific value of natural gas produced from various fields. Starting from 2014, the basic accounting unit in Poland is the energy unit (kWh). Due to the introduction of the settlement in energy units, the value of 1 m3 of nitrogen-rich gas produced from the fields located in the Lowland region is lower than the value of gas produced from the Carpathian Foreland fields and the Carpathians. The average calorific value of gas produced from the Lowland fields is about 8.0 kWh/m3, while the average calorific value of gas produced from the rest of the Foreland is about 11.2 kWh/m3. The main goal of this article was to make a forecast of gas production from domestic deposits based on the Balance of mine resources in Poland published by the Polish Geological Institute –National Research Institute. The forecast of gas extraction from domestic deposits was made for the years 2020–2030. The production forecast was prepared for each gas-bearing region separately. In order to adjust the reported volumes to the applicable energy units, the gas production forecast for the Lowland fields was converted into high-methane gas production.

The prospecting strategy for a deep Cu-Ag ore deposit in Poland – An anatomy of success

The article presents the prospecting strategy implemented by Miedzi Copper Corporation in search for new Cu-Ag ore deposits of the Kupferschiefer type. Sediment-hosted stratiform copper deposits in Poland occur mostly in the Fore-Sudetic Monocline, in the contact zone between the continental red beds (Rotliegend) and Zechstein marine sediments. The ore-bearing series consists of white sandstone (Weissliegend), copper-bearing shale (Kupferschiefer) and carbonates (Zechstein Limestone). The southern-central part of the Fore-Sudetic Monocline is a well-known Lubin-Sieroszowice mining area, where mining operations are conducted at the depths up to 1300 m below surface. However, due to significant depletion of shallower reserves, deep Cu-Ag mineralisation have recently become a subject of interest. Several basic problems had to be resolved in order to reach for such deposits: finding indicators suggesting the presence of rich mineralisation; more precise identification of the current geothermal field in the area of the Fore-Sudetic Monocline; and the availability of modern technologies which would allow safe and economic operation of a deep underground mine. In 2011, Miedzi Copper Corporation initiated its exploration programme focused on deep Cu-Ag ore deposits, based on known prognostic areas in the vicinity of palaeorises and contacts between oxidised and reduced facies, as copper mineralization occurs at the rims of oxidised areas, on the reduced side of the redox boundary. Exploration programme has led to the documentation of three new deep deposits: Nowa Sól, Sulmierzyce North and Mozów, two of which were identified in areas previously described as prospective by the Polish Geological Institute.

A hundred years of the Polish Geological Institute Editorial

A hundred years of the Polish Geological Institute Editorial

Perspectives of using the Quaternary groundwaters in the low-temperature geothermal systems in Poland

Low-temperature geothermal energy obtained from a shallow rock mass or groundwater, with a temperature below 20 °C, is used in heat pump installations. The possibilities of using the groundwater of the Quaternary aquifers in Poland as a lower heat source for heat pumps - are presented. The analysis of physical and chemical parameters of water, based on groundwater monitoring carried out by the Polish Geological Institute - National Research Institute (PIG-PIB), is the basis for the discussion. The water temperature measured at the surface, using 596 monitoring points, ranged from 7.20 °C to 19.60 °C.The analysis of 12 chemical parameters in water, to determine the correct operation of the pumps (including corrosivity and scaling), indicates that the most common problem is the hardness of these waters. Therefore, scale deposition in installations may be a more common problem than corrosion. Exceedances of limit values of parameters, preventing the use of heat pumps, have been found in only 1.5 % of the waters examined. Water may contribute to both copper and steel corrosion; however, the number of measurement points indicating the former possibility is definitely higher. Therefore, in many cases, the use of pre-exchangers may be needed when designing the installations.

The δ18O and δD isoscapes of recent groundwater in Poland

Abstract Considering the country’s development and quality of life, recognition of the water cycle mechanism is of great importance. A significant contribution to this comes from the isotopic composition of particular elements of the water cycle. However, a weak point is that in Poland only one element of the water cycle, precipitation, is sampled and measured over more than 312 thousands km2 at a single station. It is therefore necessary to seek extension of or alternatives for these rare data. Such an alternative is the sampling of groundwater containing tritium in the national monitoring network of groundwater bodies that is maintained by the Polish Geological Institute. Based on such data we have constructed δ18O and δD isoscapes (i.e., maps of δ18O and δD values) of recent groundwater. These data provide spatial distribution of δ18O and δD values which can be used as input to hydrogeological models.

Presence of pharmaceutical compounds in groundwater with respect to land use in the vicinity of sampling sites

Abstract The present paper discusses the results of an analysis of the impact of land use on the distribution of pharmaceuticals in groundwater samples collected during a pilot study of the contents of pharmaceuticals and hormones in ground-water taken from the national groundwater monitoring network of the Polish Geological Institute - National Research Institute. Samples were collected during monitoring campaigns from 160 groundwater monitoring sites in various land use types in 2016 and 2017. Samples were analysed for a total of 34 active substances, including natural and synthetic oestrogen hormones, cardiovascular and respiratory medications, analgesics and anti-inflammatories, antidepressants, antimicrobial drugs and anti-epileptics. Our study confirmed the presence of pharmaceuticals in 53 per cent of ground-water samples taken. Data show variations in the distribution of pharmaceuticals depending on land use type, which can thus be employed in pressure analysis and identification of sources of pollution.

Characteristics of Sediments in a Changing Environmental Conditions in Vistula Lagoon (Poland)

The Vistula Lagoon has been evolving since its formation in the late Atlantic period. At the beginning, the changes were mainly driven by the stabilization of the Baltic Sea level, and the development of hydrographic network. Later on, anthropogenic activities have become an important factor. Hydrotechnical works conducted at the turn of the 20th century, aimed at regulating the outflow of the Vistula River waters, have significantly limited the riverine input into the lagoon. In the past, the Vistula Lagoon contained freshwater and was constantly filing with sediments that made the basin shallow. With time, the lagoon has filled with brackish water, while its area became subjected to strong interactions between the driving forces of marine and terrestrial origin. As a result, the regime of sedimentation processes in the lagoon have been changed. The interpretation of sedimentation conditions for clastic sediments was based on the analysis of grain-size parameters that had been determined on the samples of bottom sediments and suspension collected in November 2016. The obtained results were compared to the pertinent data on bottom sediments collected by the Polish Geological Institute National Research Institute in 1994. Significant contrasts in particle size distributions were found. Also, the conducted study allowed the determination of underlying causes of these changes. Due to the shallow depth of the Vistula Lagoon, the sedimentation processes in this basin are significantly influenced by resuspension phenomenon. Resuspension is responsible for the differentiation and redistribution of sediment that originates from various sources, on the bottom of the basin. The process takes place in shallower areas, but this study indicates that its effectiveness increases in the deeper areas of the lagoon, which manifests itself in the replacement of clayey silt with silt. In connection with the plans of the Polish side of the cross-cutting of the Vistula Spit, the sedimentation conditions of Vistula Lagoon will be changed.

Selected cartographic products of the Polish Geological Survey in light of the international data standards and OneGeology experience

Selected cartographic products of the Polish Geological Survey in light of the international data standards and OneGeology experience

Baseline groundwater monitoring for shale gas extraction: definition of baseline conditions and recommendations from a real site (Wysin, Northern Poland)

Public concerns have been raised regarding the use of hydraulic fracturing for shale gas extraction and its potential impact on the environment. The absence of baseline monitoring data in the US experience has been identified as a major issue. Here, results from a 6-month groundwater baseline monitoring study near an active shale gas pad in northern Poland are presented. The data collected in dedicated boreholes include groundwater samples analysed for inorganic constituents, dissolved gases and stables isotopes (δ2H and δ18O) and downhole temperature and conductivity measurements at 15-min intervals. A robust statistical analysis combined with an estimation of data uncertainty helps to identify spatial and temporal variability within the datasets. As a result, baseline conditions are defined using confidence intervals around the mean on a per-well basis and these will serve for future reference for this site. The groundwater chemical composition is similar to regional background levels and typical of Quaternary aquifers in the region. It is also consistent with previous baseline monitoring carried out by the Polish Geological Institute. Only manganese and bromide occur in groundwater at concentrations above Polish drinking water standards. Based on this work, the paper provides some recommendations for future baseline monitoring and identifies areas for future research such as use of statistics for high-frequency datasets.

Contamination of bottom sediments by lead, zinc and cadmium in Rzeszow reservoir

Abstract The aim of the present study was to determine the level of contamination of the bottom sediments in the Rzeszow reservoir by the selected heavy metals Pb, Cd and Zn, and to identify the potential environmental risks of heavy metals content basing on available assessments and classification of bottom sediments. The Rzeszow reservoir is situated on the Wisłok River in the Podkarpackie Voivodeship, southeaster Poland, was constructed on 1974. Nowadays, as a result of silting, the reservoir reduced its surface and depth, which does not have a positive effect on the assumed functions it is to perform. The study was conducted in 2016. The samples of sediment were collected in five locations. Samples were taken twice: in June and in October. The following concentrations have been determined: cadmium - 0.01 ÷ 0.92 mg•kg–1, zinc - 54.39 ÷ 128 mg•kg–1, lead - 2.98 ÷ 25.42 mg•kg–1. The decline trend in the sediment is following: Zn > Pb > Cd. For the assessment of sediment contamination, following methods: aquatic sediment quality classification used by the Polish Geological Institute - I class, Regulation of the Minister of Environment of April 16 2002 on the types and concentrations of substances contaminating the excavated material – unpolluted and LAW sediment classification – Pb - I/I-II, Cd - I/I-II/II and Zn - I/I-II. The obtained results were compared with the results obtained by the other authors in earlier years, which led to the estimated changes in the concentration of the tested metals.

Preliminary characteristics of rare earth elements and other trace elements in fine-grained deposits from the Triassic-Jurassic transition in the former Mid-Polish Trough

Fine-grained siliciclastic rocks from the Triassic-Jurassic transition (Rhaetian–Hettangian) in the former Mid-Polish Trough were the subject of the geochemical study at the Polish Geological Institute – National Research Institute in Warsaw. Ninety-four samples of claystones and mudstones from six archived drill cores were analysed by ICP-MS and XRF for rare earth elements (REE) and other trace elements. The results indicate that the sources of most of the claystones and mudstones were sedimentary rocks of the upper continental crust of old cratonic areas, where the protolith had a moderately felsic character. Weathering and recycling processes modified the original chemical composition to some extent. However, during Rhaetian and early Hettangian, some geochemical data in the south-eastern segment of the MPT suggest significant input from a mafic volcanic protolith. Moreover, a clear enrichment in rare-earth elements was observed in few samples, caused by admixtures of accessory minerals (being a main carrier of REE). Nevertheless, based on currently obtained data, the Rhaetian–Hettangian concentrations of REE (and other trace elements) in the MPT are low and they are of scientific indicative significance, not of raw material importance.

Rare earth elements in Fe-Mn nodules from southern Baltic Sea – a preliminary study

Between 1976–1990, the Polish Geological Institute performed geological works in the Polish Maritime Areas. During these works, 260 occurrences of concretions were recorded from 7,500 sampled sites. In 1980, the threshold that separates the Bornholm Basin from the Słupsk Furrow was mapped. Numerous Fe-Mn nodules on the seabed were found in that area. The results of detailed analyses of nodule samples collected from four sites are presented in this paper. Analyzed nodules represent discoidal D, irregular I, and transitional D-I types. The nodules are characterized by varied chemical composition of main oxides (Fe, Mn). The maximum Fe2O3 content is 26.63% and MnO 23.18%. Total average amount of REE + Y in the samples is approximately 165.11 ppm, ΣLREE 145.72 ppm and ΣHREE 19.39 ppm. The LREE content is enriched in comparison to HREE. The majority of nodules consist of Fe-Mn oxy-hydroxide minerals with very low crystallinity (practically amorphous phases). The main confirmed Mn-phases are birnessite and todorokite. Other main components of the nodules are: detrital quartz, albite, microcline, glauconite and muscovite, clinochlore, and clay minerals: illite and chlorite. The rate of growth of Fe-Mn nodules has been estimated using a cobalt chronometer. The nodule growth rate ranges from 0.006 to 0.134 mm/yr –1. Based on the Fe, Mn and (Cu + Co + Ni) contents, the origin of studied nodules is determined as hydrogenetic, while using REE (Cesn/Cesn · vs. Nd) – as diagenetic.

Quantitative and Qualitative Research on the Waste from the Mining of Rock Raw Materials in Lower Silesia

The Lower Silesia area in SW Poland is characterized by a geological structure that is conducive to mining activity. The exploitation of rock raw materials plays an important role in this sector of the economy. By the end of 2017, there were in total approximately 400 current concessions for the exploitation of rock raw materials in the analysed area (Polish Geological Institute, MIDAS database—Management and Protection System of Polish Mineral Resources). The conducted mining activity results in waste, which in the greatest amount occurs in the process of obtaining crushed road and construction aggregates, natural aggregates, carbonate raw materials for the cement and lime industry, as well as stone elements for construction and road engineering. At the end of 2016, the mining plants accumulated 26,569,600 Mg of waste. As part of the European Regions Toward Circular Economy (CircE) project, research was conducted on the volume and composition of the mining waste of rock raw materials in the years 2010–2016 within Lower Silesia. This research used the methods of statistical, descriptive and spatial analysis to identify mining plants with the highest potential for using their wastes. In the course of this study, 6 mining plants with the highest potential of using their waste for industrial production purposes were selected. In order to objectively select these plants, the methodology of qualitative multi-criteria analysis was developed, and 7 criteria were selected for assessing the economic potential of using waste from the mining of rock raw materials. An additional result of this research is a database and graphical presentation of changes in the spatial distribution of generated waste in the Lower Silesia region in the years ranging from 2010 to 2016.

Geochemical Characteristics of the Bismuth and Antimony Occurrence in Some Coal Seams in the Lublin Coal Basin (LCB)

AbstractThe study included 24 samples of coal with 7 cores, boreholes (7 coal seams), made by the Polish Geological Institute in Warsaw at the site of a Chelm field and 6 coal samples taken from 2 decks in the Lublin Coal mine „Bogdanka“ S.A. in LCB. Based on performed tests found generally low levels of Sb and Bi in coal. In the vertical profile of the LCB contents of Bi and Sb in coal generally increases from coal seams younger to older age. Content of Bi in coal from roof part coal seams is usually higher, and ash content in the coal content of Sb are generally lower than in the carbon of the middle part decks. The content of Bi in the lateral coal deposits is unlikely to vary, and the gap in the coal content of Bi between the sampling regions coal do not exceed 1.7 g / Mg. In contrast gap Sb content in coal on the extent LCB is from 1.7 g / Mg of 5.8 g / Mg. The biggest influence on the content of Bi and Sb in coal from the LCB is probably organic matter in which these elements are scattered and do not form their own minerals.